Health Benefits of Coconut Oil

There are many published researches you can find about health benefits of coconut oil on internet and other information sources. Well, coconut oil is edible oil that is widely consumed in the tropical places for around thousands of years. Some studies over the native foods rich in coconut oil reveal that these people are comparatively in good health and generally do not suffer from common diseases prevalent in western countries where coconut oil is not consumed.

The reason why coconut oil is becoming popular throughout the world, are many. This helps improve body metabolism, provide a healthy heart, glowing skin and more over controls body weight. There are several other health benefits of consuming coconut oil; read on for information.

Coconut oil and Health Benefits

Healthy heart
There are various healthy chemicals present in coconut. One such ingredient is lauric acid, which aids in keeping your heart healthy and happy by controlling the bad cholesterol level.

About 50% of fats found in coconut is lauric acid. This chemical has the ability to kill various harmful viruses, bacteria and fungi, thus stave off several infections.

Accelerates metabolism
Coconut oil is rich in medium chain saturated fatty acids. This is the healthiest form of saturated fats when compared to trans-fats. These medium chain fatty acids are metabolized differently as they go to liver from the intestine and broken down into ketone bodies which have an appetite reducing effect. Hence, consuming coconut oil for several years can show a dramatic influence on body weight.

Boosts up energy levels
Coconut oil is one of the best sources of energy. Since, medium chain fatty acids are transported directly to the liver from the digestive tract where they are broken down into ketone bodies. Ketones are the food for the brain, thus, providing instant energy. So, if you want an immediate energy lift, you can try a spoon full of coconut oil into your coffee.

Healthy skin
Coconut oil can do wonders for your skin as it helps hydrate the skin. It aids in slowing fine lines appearance as it keeps the connective tissues of skin strong, thus, preventing its wrinkling and sagging. If you want a healthy glow, apply coconut oil directly onto the skin of face and body. Make sure that you use virgin coconut oil without any additives.

Counters type-2 diabetes
A recent research in Garvan Institute of Medical Research shows that consuming coconut oil provides protection against insulin resistance. Hence, it reduces the risk of type-2 diabetes. Medium chain fats are so small that they are absorbed into the cells and instantly converted into energy. Thus, helps reduces the storage of fats into the body and improves insulin sensitivity.

Coconut Water
The sweet water which is extracted from the tender coconut can not just quench your thirst but can also elevate your energy levels to a great extent. Suitable for all ages, coconut water can be fed to infants as well and is one of the favorite drinks of sportspersons and athletes. So come hail or storm, coconut water keeps you running on your toes till dusk.

Food
Experts opine that almost 60 percent of coconut oil is made up of Caprice and Lauric acid which are reported to be of the medium chain of fatty acids according to which fats are classified. It is also reported that Lauric acid is converted into Monolaurin a kind of fat which is present in the mother’s milk which helps infants develop a stronger immune system. Coconut oil is said to be rich in Monolaurin thereby containing both antimicrobial and antiviral properties.

Wrinkles
The sun’s rays can come down hard on the skin and cause wrinkles. Coconut oil is effective in preventing wrinkles caused by excessive sun exposure thereby reducing the process of ageing.

Medicinal Benefits of Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is reported to have numerous medicinal benefits as identified by Ayurveda and is used for treating the following conditions:

Debility

Urinary inconsistency

Menstrual disorders

Cough

Experts also opine that coconut kernel is processed in a way to prepare what is called nalikera khanda and nalikera lavana that have proved effective in treating gastrointestinal disorders such as ulcers and many more related problems. So if you’re looking to an overall well being, then a glass of coconut water or white flakes from the coconut kernel can do great wonders!

These are a few health benefits of coconut oil. It is a healthy alternative to cooking oils like sunflower oil and virgin olive oil as they will oxidize at higher temperatures. Coconut oil maintains its quality even at higher temperatures.